The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, continues working with the Toledo Lucas County Public Library.
Back on February 1, 2024, Libraries with Heart was launched. The initiative allows patrons to be screened for blood pressure at the library.
Library patrons will have access to a blood pressure monitor, American Heart Association- guided materials on how to properly measure blood pressure, an explanation of what blood pressure numbers mean and a contact list of providers for anyone who needs follow-up.
Since the launch, there have been 157 lifetime checkouts. In 2025, there have been a total of 34.
Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, which can lead to stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, vision loss and more. These poor health outcomes can potentially be avoided if hypertension is managed.
“Unfortunately, many people don’t know if they have high blood pressure. On top of that, someone could have difficulty accessing a blood pressure monitor because of cost or lack of access,” said Mindy Hartwick, executive director at the American Heart Association. “Libraries with Heart allows patrons to have access to the monitors in hopes to improve the health of people in the community.”
If someone does find out that they have high blood pressure, it’s important to make changes to reduce your risk for other health problems.
Libraries with Heart aims to improve the health of local communities.
